Ashes - ICC, Pietersen hit out over Hot Spot allegation reports

The International Cricket Council has no plans to investigate alleged attempts by players to "cheat" Hot Spot technology in this summer's Ashes.

Kevin Pietersen has angrily disputed claims that he and other players try to be Hot Spot

Cricket's world governing body has responded to reports, that it was about to launch an inquiry into the possible use of silicone tape to prevent Hot Spot picking up edges on caught-behind appeals, by dismissing them out of hand.

England batsman Kevin Pietersen and Australia captain Michael Clarke have already made it clear that silicone is not being used, as far as they know, the former taking particular umbrage on Twitter.

ICC chief executive David Richardson has made it clear that - although his organisation's general manager Geoff Allardice is flying to Durham before the fourth Investec Test to speak to players - his journey has nothing to do with any investigation.

Richardson said: "These media reports are totally incorrect.

"Geoff Allardice is meeting with both teams and umpires to see how we can best use the DRS and the available technology, going forward in the next two Test matches.

"It has nothing to do with any players."

Pietersen is one of several players to have been affected by DRS incidents this summer, given out caught-behind on the final day as England retained the Ashes at Emirates Old Trafford even though Hot Spot indicated he had not hit the ball.

On Wednesday, responding to the stories, he tweeted: "Horrible journalism yet again!

"My name brought up in hotspot crisis, suggesting I use silicon to prevent nicks showing! Such hurtful lies."

Pietersen went on to deny being a cheat, adding: "I am never afraid of getting out! If I nick it, I'll walk.. To suggest I cheat by covering my bat with silicon infuriates me.."